Everyone can remember their first car – be it a hand-me-down from your parents, an old “banger” you picked up off a mate or, if you were lucky, something a little more glamorous. Once you’ve been driving a while, however, you tend to become a little more astute when it comes to picking your next motor. 

Buying a used car should be a fun experience, but there are a number of possible pitfalls. Here is some advice that should help you make the right decision.

Where you buy your car from can make a difference. Franchised dealers are likely to be more expensive, but there is less risk involved. If you’re going to a non-franchised garage then make sure it is a member of a trade organisation. Buying a used car from a small ad can be the most risky as there might be no chance of comeback if things go wrong.

Wherever you buy your car from, go armed with a car price guide such as Parkers, which is sold in newsagents, so you know what you should expect to pay. Take a torch and a mirror to check the car's underside for rust or damage. If you're not much of a mechanic, ask a friend who is to go with you. If you don’t know anyone like this, there are services and garages that will check a car out for you, normally for a fee.

Only go car hunting in daylight and good weather. After dark, or on rainy days, it is much harder to spot a car's faults. Never agree to view a car in the street or a car park. If you're answering a private advertisement, always insist on going to the owner's home.

Make sure you check these:
Tyres – uneven wear could mean suspension problems
Exhaust – smoke is always a bad sign
Dipstick – black, sludgy oil could mean poor maintenance or a worn-out engine
Identity – If the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and engine number are different from what's on the registration document, walk away, this is a dodgy car.

You might also want to check how much the car insurance is going to cost you before you buy. Direct Line can give you a quote on a car you are thinking of buying, in case it might affect your decision.

If you do find the car of your dreams, and need help with the financing, then why not apply online for a competitive car loan with Direct Line. What’s more, if you're an existing car insurance customer or you choose to switch to us in the next 12 months, you'll get an extra 10% off our best car insurance price plus free breakdown cover for two years.